Robert A. Anders, M.D., Ph.D.
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Primary Appointment in Pathology
My laboratory's interests focus on the basic processes that lead to liver cell death and division. We approach these questions through the use of both experimental models and examination of human tissues. A microarray screening method uncovered several candidate genes that seem to contribute to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in the setting of end-stage hepatitis C viral cirrhosis (1,2). From these studies we have begun to focus on how the immune system can create an environment that contributes to liver cell growth and death. In particular, we wish to understand how the TNF alpha related superfamily members LIGHT and lymphotoxin can control liver cell death and division. It appears as though these cytokines and their receptors have a dominant control over liver cell survival. We use basic models to replicate immune mediated liver injury. Surprisingly, we have found that not all activated immune cells lead to liver damage. We have recently uncovered that activated hematopoietic cells also support liver growth. While we will continue to extend these basic mechanistic studies we are also developing new methods to explore human hepatocellular carcinogenesis.
Publications
Anders RA, Yerian L, Tretiakova M, Davison JM, Quigg R, Domer PH, Hoberg J, Hart J. cDNA microarray analysis of macroregenerative and dysplastic nodules in end stage Hepatitis C induced liver disease. American Journal of Pathology March 2003; 162:991-1000.
Yerian LM, Anders RA, Tretiakova M, Hart J. Caveolin and thrombospondin expression during hepatocellular carcinogenesis. American Journal of Surgical Pathology. March 2004;28(3):357-64 200.
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